This reward program has been available to ASA umpires since
1986. It was originally started as a program for those umpires who have been
assigned and officiated in three national championships, but did not qualify or
gain approval for International Softball Federation (ISF) certification. Today
it is considered the highest level reward program for ASA Umpires, not including
the ASA Hall of Fame Umpire classification or ISF certification.

There are currently 1,793 members certified with the National
Indicator Fraternity (NIF), with approximately 100-125 added annually. The
applicant must have been an ASA registered umpire for at least seven (7) years,
but does not have to be currently active. To qualify the umpire must have
umpired or served as a national championship UIC or assistant UIC for three
nationals, or can substitute attendance at a National Umpire School for one of
the nationals. Approval by the state/metro commissioner and the Regional UIC is
mandatory for acceptance. Cost is $15 and the umpire receives a certificate,
membership card and a patch.

The program is popular for those umpires who have advanced to
the next level, and as a result have umpired in three nationals. It is a select
group, considering that there are nearly 50,000 umpires nationwide. Names are
permanently displayed in the National Hall of Fame and printed annually in the
ASA Case Book.